The power of two: reflections on the MBRRACE-UK maternal and perinatal deaths reports and the London maternity strategic clinical network.

The UK maternal mortality rate is 10 per 100,000-maternities and is falling. The decrease is due to fewer deaths from direct causes; there has been no significant change in the indirect rate over the last 10 years. The UK mortality rate for babies is six stillbirths and neonatal deaths per 100,000 births. Local rates vary from 5.4-7.1. The variation is not due to normal variation or demographic factors. The London Maternity Strategic Clinical Network uses a multi-disciplinary team approach to improve maternity user experience. The Northern New England Cardiovascular Disease Study Group (NNE CVDSG) meet to share data, observe clinical practice and make changes. Maternity units may wish to consider adapting the NNE CVDSG approach to improve their quality of maternity care.